Thousands to Run Malibu Triathlon to Raise Money for Cancer Research this Weekend

MALIBU, CA — Thousands of triathletes, including celebrities, will face off in a half-mile ocean swim, 18-mile bike ride and 4-mile run in Malibu this weekend to raise funds for the Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Pediatric Cancer Research Program.

The funds raised from the Nautica Malibu Triathlon will help support the Basic and Translational Cancer Research Program of the Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Last year, the triathlon raised more than $1.31 million in support of the cancer research program, with notable celebrity participants such as Chace Crawford, Jon Cryer, Jack Falahee and Michael Weatherly competing.

"Since starting this triathlon, we have raised over $10 million in support of the cancer research program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles and hope to raise even more in the years to come," said Michael Epstein, president of Michael Epstein Sports Productions Inc, the organizer of the event. "It is inspiring to know that each year participants from various backgrounds continue to come to one of the most beautiful sites of Los Angeles — Malibu beach — all in support of this amazing cause."

The triathlon, presented by Equinox, comprises of two races, including the Herbalife International Distance Race on Saturday, which features a 1.5K Pacific Ocean swim, a 40K bike course along the Pacific Coast Highway and a 10K run course along Zuma Beach.

The Classic Distance, hosted the day after, will feature a half-mile ocean swim, 18-mile bike course and 4-mile run. Fans and loved ones are encouraged to join in on the fun by enjoying games in the Fun Zone and watching young competitors take on the Nautica Kids Run and Tot Trot.

"The depth of appreciation the entire team at Children's Hospital Los Angeles has for absolutely everyone involved in this invigorating triathlon is boundless," said Dr. Alan S. Wayne, director of the Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. "We are pleased to continually receive support for our cancer research program from the triathlon's participants, sponsors and the community as all efforts will touch the lives of many children and families for years to come."

Caltrans officials announced Thursday that Pacific Coast Highway from Busch Drive to Deer Creek Road will be closed for the event from 5 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday. Signs will be posted, however, motorists should expect delays in the area.

Photo via Shutterstock